Permanent building structure with reusable modular building units

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are disclosed. The method includes inserting, from outside of a building structure, a first reusable modular building unit (RMBU) onto a floor of the building structure. The first RMBU including a room. The method also includes after inserting the first RMBU, placing the first RMBU on the floor. The method includes after placing the first RMBU on the floor, removably coupling the first RMBU to the building structure. The building structure includes a permanent interface connecting the building structure to the ground. The building structure also includes the floor. The building structure includes a support to support the floor. The building structure also includes an access point configured to house and support a service.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/539,307, filed Jul. 31, 2017 and titled “Reusable,Modular, Building System,” which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to building structures capable ofreceiving building units, and more particularly, reusable modularbuilding units.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In various embodiments, a building structure receiving building units isdisclosed.

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a methodincludes a number of operations. One such operation is to insert, fromoutside of a building structure, a first reusable modular building unit(RMBU) onto a floor of the building structure. The first RMBU includes aroom. Another such operation is after inserting the first RMBU, to placethe first RMBU on the floor. Yet another such operation is after placingthe first RMBU on the floor, to removably couple the first RMBU to thebuilding structure. The building structure includes a permanentinterface connecting the building structure to the ground. The buildingstructure also includes the floor. The building structure furtherincludes a support to support the floor. The building structure alsoincludes an access point configured to house and support a service.

In embodiments, another operation is to construct the building structureprior to inserting the first RMBU. Constructing the building structureincludes inserting the permanent interface into the ground. Thepermanent interface includes a foundation or a plurality of posts andfootings.

In embodiments, the first RMBU includes a utility. Removably couplingthe first RMBU to the building structure includes coupling the utilityto the service. Removably coupling the first RMBU to the buildingstructure also includes coupling a floor joist of the first RMBU to thefloor of the building structure.

In embodiments, inserting the first RMBU onto the floor of the buildingstructure includes lifting and placing the first RMBU onto the floor.

In embodiments, placing the first RMBU onto the floor of the buildingstructure, includes using at least a winch on the floor to pull thefirst RMBU into a position on the floor.

In embodiments, placing the first RMBU onto the floor of the buildingstructure includes deploying a roller assembly of the first RMBU to rollthe first RMBU onto a position on the floor.

In embodiments, the first RMBU includes a removable panel. The removablepanel including a door, a camera, a window, a double door, or a mailboxslot.

In embodiments, the removable panel is configured to house and supportservices.

In embodiments, another operation is to insert from outside of thebuilding structure, a second RMBU onto a second floor of the buildingstructure. The second RMBU including a room. The second RMBU includes aremovable panel. The removable panel of the second RMBU is differentfrom the removable panel of the first RMBU and includes a door, acamera, a window, a double door, or a mailbox slot.

In embodiments, another such operation is to install one or more caps onan exterior of the building structure. Installation of one more capsgives the first RMBU and the second RMBU an integrated appearance froman exterior of the building structure.

In embodiments, another operation is to insert from outside of thebuilding structure, a second RMBU onto the floor of the buildingstructure. The second RMBU includes a room. Another such operation is toplace the second RMBU adjacent the first RMBU on the floor. Yet anothersuch operation is after placing the second RMBU, to secure the secondRMBU to the building structure, wherein the combination of the first andsecond RMBUs forms a functional living or office space.

In accordance with additional aspects of the present disclosure, asystem is disclosed. The system includes a building structure. Thebuilding structure includes a permanent interface connecting thebuilding structure to the ground. The building structure also includes afloor. The building structure includes a support to support the floor.The building structure also includes an access point configured to houseand support a service. The system also includes a first reusable modularbuilding unit (RMBU) configured to be inserted, from outside of thebuilding structure, onto the floor of the building structure. The firstRMBU is placed onto the floor after it is inserted into the buildingstructure. The first RMBU is removably coupled to the building structureThe first RMBU includes a room.

In embodiments, the building structure further includes a craneconfigured to lift and place the first RMBU onto the floor.

In embodiments, the first RMBU includes an adjustable rolling mechanismto allow the first RMBU to roll into a position on a surface.

In embodiments, the adjustable rolling mechanism can be adjusted toengage or disengage the rolling mechanism with the surface.

In embodiments, the permanent interface is a foundation.

In accordance with additional aspects of the present disclosure, amethod is disclosed including a number of operations. One such operationis to decouple a first reusable modular building unit (RMBU) from afirst building structure. The first RMBU includes a room. Another suchoperation is after decoupling the first RMBU, to move the first RMBUfrom the floor to an outside edge of the floor to remove the first RMBUfrom building structure. Yet another such operation is after moving thefirst RMBU to the outside edge of the floor, to remove the first RMBUfrom the building structure. The first building structure includes apermanent interface connecting the building structure to the ground. Thefirst building structure also includes a floor. The first buildingstructure includes a support to support the floor. The first buildingstructure also includes an access point configured to house and supporta service.

In embodiments, another such operation is after removing the first RMBU,to transport the first RMBU to a second permanent building structure.The second building structure includes a floor. Another operation isafter transporting the first RMBU to the second building structure, toinsert, from outside of the second building structure, a first RMBU ontothe floor of the second building structure. Yet another such operationis after inserting the first RMBU, to place the first RMBU on the floorof the second building structure. Another operation is after placing thefirst RMBU on the floor of the second building structure, to removablycouple the first RMBU to the second building structure.

In embodiments, the operation is to insert, from outside of the firstbuilding structure, a second RMBU onto the floor of the first buildingstructure. The second RMBU including a room. Another such operation isafter inserting the second RMBU, to place the second RMBU on the floor.Yet another such operation is after placing the second RMBU on thefloor, to removably couple the second RMBU to the first buildingstructure

In embodiments, the first RMBU has at least one of a different size,shape, and configuration from the second RMBU.

Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the featuresin accordance with embodiments of the invention. The summary is notintended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely bythe claims attached hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various embodiments are described in detail with reference to thefollowing figures. The drawings are provided for purposes ofillustration only and merely depict typical or example embodiments.These drawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding ofthe invention and shall not be considered limiting of the breadth,scope, or applicability of the invention. It should be noted that forclarity and ease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily madeto scale.

FIG. 1A illustrates an example building structure, including RMBUs, thatmay be assembled in accordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a permanent slab foundation thatprovides an interface between a building and the earth, in accordancewith implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 1C illustrates an example of a permanent interface to the earthusing posts and footings, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure.

FIG. 2 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method formanufacturing a building structure, in accordance with implementationsof the disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates front, rear, and side views of an exterior of anexample RMBU, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example interior layout of an RMBU, in accordancewith implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates several examples of a removable panel that may beimplemented in a wall of an RMBU configured to face an interior of abuilding structure, in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 6 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method formanufacturing a RMBU, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a skate-trailer assembly, including a skate andtrailer, onto which a base of an RMBU may be set during assembly, inaccordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example method to install an RMBU into a buildingstructure, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example roller assembly that may be incorporatedinto an RMBU for this purpose, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates one example implementation of securing an RMBU to afloor of a concrete building structure using a wedge bolt, in accordancewith implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates one example implementation of securing an RMBU to afloor of a steel building structure using a bolt-washer-nut assembly, inaccordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example connection of plumbing services between abuilding structure and an RMBU, in accordance with implementations ofthe disclosure

FIG. 13 illustrates an exterior view of building structure after RMBUshave been installed, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a building structureafter an RMBU has been installed, in accordance with implementations ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 15 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example methodfor installing an RMBU into a building structure, in accordance withimplementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example method to remove a RMBU from a buildingstructure, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example methodfor removing an RMBU from a building structure, in accordance withimplementations of the disclosure.

The figures are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventionto the precise form disclosed. It should be understood that theembodiments and invention can be practiced with modification andalteration, and that the invention be limited only by the claims and theequivalents thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein to refer to the installation of an RMBU into a buildingstructure, the terms “removably coupling” or “removably coupled” areintended to refer to coupling the RMBU to the building structure in sucha manner that the RMBU may be uncoupled from the building structure at afuture date without structurally impacting the building structure or theRMBU. For example, RMBU utility services, including plumbing,electrical, natural gas, cable TV/internet, etc. may be connected toservices of the building structure during the installation process insuch a manner that the RMBU may be disconnected at a future date toallow removal of the RMBU. As another example, an RMBU may be secured tothe floor of the building in such a manner that the securing mechanismmay be removed without structurally impacting the building structure orRMBU.

One of the most salient problems is “the housing crisis.” Related tothis are the rising cost of home ownership, a shortage in the number ofavailable housing units, and a growing homeless count. The housingcrisis also includes the tendency of new housing to be mostly built inthe market-rate and luxury housing sectors, while few developments focuson affordable, low-income, and workforce housing sectors. The housingcrisis is so severe in major cities, such as Los Angeles and SanFrancisco, that illegal units have become common and prohibitions aregenerally treated as unenforceable by code enforcement officials.

One common barrier to solving housing crisis issues is that the cost ofproducing housing is greater than the market value of finished inventoryin the categories with the most acute shortages: affordable, low-income,and workforce; so, developers concentrate on market-rate and luxuryhousing, which is a much more profitable, but a much smaller market. Asan example, buildings today are fairly rigid permanent structures.Improvements within these buildings must be torn down and reconstructedif fewer partitions, or a different design, is desired. The improvementscannot be reconfigured or transported to different locations. In othersituations, temporary structures, such as trailers, are placed onto asite and remain as stand-alone structures. There is no system thatprovides a flexible building that allows improvements to be easilyinserted and removed. While various incentives, ranging from tax breaksto direct subsidization, are utilized, the scope of the problem is fartoo great to be mitigated with publicly-funded incentives.

The cost of producing housing is greater than the market value for atleast several reasons. 1) The cost of land is high in areas with highdemand. 2) The entitlements process is slow and expensive, and thelarger the project, the more prohibitive the process. 3) Unlike othermanufacturing environments, construction has not exploited the greaterefficiencies of manufacturing best practices. The third of these threereasons presents the greatest opportunity for correction and subsequentexploitation.

Implementations of the disclosure are directed to addressing these andother problems that arise when manufacturing and providing housing. Tothis end, systems and methods are described for implementing a buildingstructure with removable and reusable modular building units (RMBUs). Inparticular, techniques described herein may be applied with buildingstructures having permanent foundations.

As further described herein, the RMBUs may be configured to be removablefrom the building structure and replaced with another RMBU withoutcompromising the integrity of the building structure or the RMBU uponinstallation or removal. This may provide several advantages. First, theremovability of the RMBUs allows a RMBU to be purchased at a lower costthan the cost of constructing a new building structure with permanentunits in a more traditional manner. Second, the efficiencies ofmanufacturing may be applied to building construction by usingfactory-built, modular construction. Instead of building on-site,components of the building (i.e., the RMBUs) may be manufactured in acontrolled factory environment, transported, and assembled on-site.Further, the use of RMBUs as described herein make it possible, overtime, to adapt, customize, and/or update the housing provided by abuilding structure with a permanent interface to the earth (e.g., apermanent foundation). By virtue of being able to update the housingprovided by a permanent building structure by replacing existingreusable modular building structures, the longevity of buildingstructures having permanent interfaces to the earth may be extended overtime. These and other advantages that may be realized by implementingbuilding structures with RMBUs are further described below.

FIG. 1A illustrates an example building structure 100, include RMBUs,that may be assembled in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure. Although FIG. 1A illustrates a particular example of abuilding structure that may be used in implementations, it should beappreciated that other building structures may be used, such as a singleloaded building structure providing access points to a set of RMBUs onone side of the building structure.

As illustrated, the building structure 100 may include a permanentfoundation 150, access point 10, a frame 12, and one or more floorssupported by one or more supports 14. In alternative embodiments, thebuilding structure does not include an access point 10. The buildingstructure may be constructed using concrete, a steel frame, wood, and/orusing other construction materials.

In various implementations, the building structure 100 may be apermanent building structure including a permanent foundation 150.Foundation 150 may be a shallow foundation such as a spread footing or aslab-on-grade foundation. Alternatively, foundation 150 may be a deepfoundation such as a foundation based on piles driven or drilled deepinto the ground in the earth.

FIG. 1B illustrates one example of a permanent slab foundation 150-1that provides an interface between a building and the earth, inaccordance with the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 1B illustrates apermanent building 100-1 seated on a slab foundation 150-1 including aslab 151, foundation walls 152, and footings 153. This examplefoundation design serves as an interface between the building 100-1 andthe Earth 170, and provides a strong, stable, level platform on whichthe building sits.

In other implementations, permanent building structure 100 may not havea permanent foundation but some other permanent interface between thebuilding structure and the earth. For example, building structure 100may be engineered with footings and posts that provide a permanentinterface to the earth. FIG. 1C illustrates one such example of apermanent interface 170 to the earth 195 using posts and footings, inaccordance with implementations of the disclosure. As illustrated,permanent interface 170 includes posts 180 and 190. Post 180 is anchoredto a pier 181 and footing 182 (e.g., using a concrete anchor). Post 190is anchored to a footing 192 with no pier (e.g., using a concreteanchor). The pier 181 and footing 182, or simply footing 192, mayprovide a strong, stable, and level platform on which each post sits.The posts 180 and 190, along with the piers and footings, may provide apermanent interface between the building (e.g., a building implementedas a raised podium supported by the posts) and earth 195. Although twoposts are illustrated in this example, it should be appreciated that anynumber of posts having piers and footings, or simply footings, may beutilized.

Referring again to FIG. 1A, access point 10 may provide access betweenRMBUs 18 and support services. Access point 10 may also provide one ormore structures to travel between floors, such as elevators, escalators,stairs, etc. Access point 10 may also provide one or more structures totravel on the same floor, such as hallways. Access point 10 may also beconfigured to support the building structure and floors.

In some implementations, structures to travel between floors may beprovided external to the building structure. In such implementations,access point 10 may be excluded from the building structure, or it maybe implemented in combination with the structures external to thebuilding. Access point 10 may be substantially rectangular, circular,and/or other shapes.

In particular implementations, access point 10 may be a core, of a coreand shell building structure. The core may include a central area of abuilding housing the elevator and stairwells, electrical equipment,restrooms, and other facilities, whereas the shell may include theremaining building structure. In such implementations, the core andshell together comprise the essential minimum structure that composesthe building. For example, a core and shell may include exteriorweatherproofing, but not partition walls between floors to separatedifferent occupants or spaces. In embodiments, access point 10 does notinclude any tenant improvements or a weatherproofed exterior.

The support services provided to the building structure 100 may include,water, natural gas, electricity, sewage, and/or other utilities. Thesesupport services may provide utilities for individual RMBUs 18. In someembodiments, the utilities may be connected to the services, such thatit is building code compliant. In embodiments, utilities and servicesmay run through supports 14 to connect to RMBUs 18. In some embodiments,utilities may run through a utility closet, walls between RMBUs,hallways, etc.

Frame 12 may include one or more floors. The one or more floors may besupported by supports 14. As illustrated, supports 14 may be on thecorners of the floors, but it should be appreciated that supports 14 maybe placed in other locations. In embodiments, supports 14 may be placedin between RMBUs 18. In some embodiments, supports 14 may besubstantially circular, rectangular, and/or other shapes. Supports 14may be solid, hollow, and/or partially hollow. Supports 14 may be madeof metal, wood, and/or other materials. In some embodiments, frame 12may be a shell of a core and shell building structure.

The one or more floors may be configured to receive one or more RMBUs18, such that the space conforms to the size required for installing aRMBU 18. In some implementations, a RMBU 18 does not provide any type ofstructural support to a floor above it.

In other implementations, an RMBU 18 may provide structural support to afloor above it having one or more installed RMBUs. In suchimplementations, RMBUs may be installed in an ascending manner, startingwith the lower floor and finishing at the upper floor. During removal ofRMBUs, the RMBUs may be removed in a descending manner, starting withthe upper floor and finishing at the lower floor.

As further described below, the RMBUs may individually include a room, autility which interfaces with the services, and one or more walls. Afirst wall may face towards the inside of the building structure. Thefirst wall may include interchangeable panels. A second wall may facetoward the outside of the building structure.

In some implementations, building structure 100 may also include one ormore areas that are not designed to receive one or more RMBUs, but areotherwise designed as part of the floorspace of the building when thebuilding is constructed (e.g., prior to inserting any RMBUs). Such areasmay be referred to as permanent building units, and they may providestructural support for the building structure 100. For example, the oneor more areas may include a walled area such as a permanent room, acourtyard area, etc.

FIG. 2 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method formanufacturing a building structure (e.g., building structure 100), inaccordance with implementations of the disclosure. At operation 202, abuilding site may be graded and trenched. Grading may include measuringan angle of the existing ground, and removing or adding material to theground to get to a desired second angle. For example, after grading, thebuilding site may have an angle of between 0 and 10 degrees from thehorizon. Material such as dirt, may be added or removed in the buildingsite and compacted, such that the building site has a desirable angle(e.g., about 0 degrees.)

At operation 204, services may be run into the building site. Theseservices may then be run to individual RMBUs after they are installedinto the building structure (e.g., after performing method 200).

At decision 206, it is determined whether a slab foundation type orpodium foundation type will be used. While slab and podium foundationsare illustrated in this example, it should be recognized that otherfoundation types or permanent interfaces to the earth may be used. If aslab foundation type is selected, at operation 208, the foundation maybe formed by pouring a slab directly onto the graded and trenchedground. In embodiments, a slab may be poured into a matrix of rebar. Ifa podium foundation type is selected, at operation 210, a podium may beconstructed by pouring concrete over an array of shorter walls orsupports.

At operation 212, a first portion of an access point may be constructed.The first portion of the access point may be the first floor of theaccess point. It may not have a top to cover the access point as theaccess point may be hollow. In some embodiments, operation 212 may beskipped (i.e., the access point may not be constructed at all).

At decision 214, it is determined whether the floors are constructed bymaking an elevated slab or a joist. While two techniques for floorconstruction are illustrated in the example of FIG. 2, it should berecognized that other floor construction techniques may be used. If anelevated slab floor type is selected, at operation 216, the first floormay be constructed by pouring concrete to make an elevated slab. If ajoist floor type is selected, at operation 218, the first floor may beconstructed using a joist system in combination with lightweightconcrete, a wood subfloor, a framed steel structure, and/or othermaterials. Joists may be used to support a floor and other loads over anopen area.

At operation 220, operations 214-218 may be repeated until a desirednumber of floors are constructed. The floors may be constructed inascending order, starting with the first floor, and terminating with thetop floor. In some implementations, only one floor may be desired, andoperation 220 may be omitted.

FIG. 3 illustrates front, rear, and side views of an exterior of anexample RMBU 300, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure.As illustrated from the exterior views, the RMBU may include a livingspace 301, a subfloor 302, and a utility space 303. In this example, aside of the building structure facing the exterior of the buildingstructure (front view) may have windows 304, and a side of the buildingstructure facing the interior of the building structure (interior view)may have an entry door 305. However, it should be appreciated that otherconfigurations of windows 304 and entry door 305 may be utilized. Forexample, an entry door 305 may be positioned along a side of the RMBU300, a window may be positioned along a side or rear of the RMBU 300, awindow may not be positioned along a front of the RMBU 300 facing theexterior of the building, etc.

Utility space 303 may include a space for utilities of an individualRMBU to run through to connect to services from the building structure(e.g., building structure 100). Subfloor 302 may extend across thelength of RMBU 300.

In implementations, a RMBU may be implemented as a standalone unit(e.g., a complete apartment unit), or as a subunit (e.g., one or morerooms of a living or office unit). In implementations where a RMBU isimplemented as a subunit, multiple RMBUs may be combined duringinstallation into a building structure (e.g., building structure 100) toform a functional space. For example, an apartment unit may be made oftwo RMBUs, while an office space may be made of three RMBUs.

In some implementations, an RMBU may be implemented as a living unit,such as a one bedroom apartment. The one bedroom apartment may have aliving room, a dining room, a kitchen, a dining room, a bathroom, and abedroom. FIG. 4 illustrates one such example interior layout of an RMBU,in accordance with implementations. The bedroom and bathroom may facethe outside of the building. The living room may face the inside of thebuilding structure. In some embodiments, the living room may open upinto the inside of the building which may be a communal hallway. Theliving unit may be a two bedroom, three bedroom, and/or another livingunit. For example, an apartment unit may be made of two RMBUs, while anoffice space may be made of three RMBUs.

In some implementations, an RMBU may be implemented as an office space,hotel, restaurant, retail space, art gallery, and/or other functionalspace. In embodiments, the RMBU may vary in sizes that correspond, inpart, to the available building structure. For example, four one bedroomRMBUs may span across one side of the building structure, which may betwo retail spaces, or three retail spaces. In other words, while theheights of the various RMBUs may be fixed, the widths and lengths may beadapted to accommodate the various functional spaces of the buildingstructure. In some embodiments, the heights of the various RMBUs may beadjusted based on the building structure, custom requests, and/or otherfactors. In embodiments, one or more RMBUs may be combined to form afunctional space.

Referring again to FIG. 3, as illustrated by the rear view, theside/wall of the RMBU 300 facing the interior of the building structuremay include a removable panel 306, including entry door 305. Theremovable panel 306 may be replaced by another removable panel tocustomize the entrance (e.g., change appearance or type of entry door,add mail/package slots, etc.) to the RMBU. FIG. 5 illustrates severalexamples of a removable panel that may be used instead of removablepanel 306, in accordance with implementations.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the removable panel may include a simplesingle door 305, a double door 304, a door 305 with a mail slot 306adjacent to the door 305, a door 305 with a package delivery slot 307adjacent to the door 305, a door 305 with a security camera and/or pad308, a windowed door 309, a glass door 310, a glass assembly 311 with adoor, and/or other door assemblies. While eight examples of removablepanels are illustrated, it should be appreciated that other types ofdoor assemblies may be used based on different customizations. Forexample, there may be pet doors, Dutch doors, and/or other doors. Byvirtue of using a removable panel design, an RMBU may be adapted overtime to suit a present occupant or a new occupant that moves into theRMBU. For example, an RMBU may be repurposed from living space to officespace by, among other things, swapping a panel 306 including a 305 witha panel including a glass assembly 311.

In implementation where the panel does not include a glass assembly 311,bolts that are accessible from the door jam may extend through thepanel, to the wall of the RMBU. These bolts may be tightened or loosenedfrom the door jam to remove or insert the panel. In the case of a glassassembly 311, connections may be around the edges of the panel, to theRMBU, to allow for insertion or removable of the panel.

FIG. 6 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method 600for manufacturing a RMBU, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure. At operation 602, a base of a RMBU is set onto askate-trailer assembly. The base may include the starting framework forforming the RMBU. The skate portion of the assembly may be configured tointerface with a building structure, as illustrated in FIG. 8, whichwill be described in greater detail below. The trailer portion of theassembly may interface with various vehicles. For example, FIG. 7illustrates a skate-trailer assembly 710, including a skate 711 andtrailer 712, onto which a base of an RMBU may be set, in accordance withimplementations.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 7, a forklift 720 may move theskate-trailer assembly 710 holding the RMBU within a factory, while atruck 730 may move the skate-trailer assembly 710 to a building worksite. The skate-trailer assembly may include strap notches 740 tofacilitate lifting of the skate with a crane as illustrated by FIG. 8.Strap notches 740 may allow straps to be inserted or removed while theskate is on the trailer with the skate fully seated flush on thetrailer. In other implementations, the skate may include loops to attachchains, straps, ropes, etc., or some other mechanism may be used tofacilitate lifting of the skate with a crane. By virtue of setting abase of an RMBU onto a skate-trailer assembly, time may be saved duringthe RMBU assembly and transportation process. Additionally, injuries maybe avoided (e.g., due to loading the RMBU after assembly).

At decision 604, it is determined whether to use a steel frame or woodframe for framing the RMBU. While steel frame and wood frame options areillustrated in this example, it should be recognized that other types offrames such as cross-laminated timber, concrete blocks, etc., may beused. Additionally, in some implementations, a combination of theaforementioned framing materials may be used. If it is determined to usea steel frame, at operation 606, the RMBU is framed using a steel suchas light gauge steel. If it is determined to use a wood frame, atoperation 608, the RMBU is framed using a wood frame.

At operation 610, exterior sheathing is installed. Exterior sheathingmay include the material surrounding the RMBU frame, which may provide asurface to apply other materials onto. Exterior sheathing may bestructural or non-structural. Structural sheathing may provide supportto the RMBU and may include plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), waferboard, exterior gypsum board, cement board, and/or other materials.Non-structural sheathing may not provide strength to a wall, but mayincrease the insulation provided by the walls and may include plastic,foam, cellulose fiber, extruded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and/orother materials.

At decision 612, it is determined whether to use copper plumbing orcrosslinked polyethylene (PEX) plumbing. While copper and PEX plumbingoptions are illustrated in this example, it should be recognized thatother types of plumbing may be used. Additionally, in someimplementations, a combination of copper and PEX plumbing may be used.If it is determined to use copper plumbing, at operation 614, copperplumbing is installed. If it is determined to use PEX plumbing, atoperation 616, PEX plumbing is installed.

At operation 618 rough installations are finished. Rough installationsmay include electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning(HVAC), and glazing. The various installations may utilize spaceunderneath a RMBU, within the walls, overhead, and/or in other spaces.Any other necessary services may also be installed.

At operation 620, insulation is installed. At operation 622, the RMBU isfinished. Finishing the RMBU may include installing a wall covering tocover the interior structure of the walls, such as drywall, paneling,tile, and/or other materials. The wall covering may be primed andpainted. Finishing may also include installing a floor covering, such aswood, tile, carpet, concrete, and/or other materials. Hardware may alsobe installed, such as cabinets, molding, and/or other components. Inembodiments, appliances and fixtures may be installed, such as ovens,refrigerators, fans, and/or other appliances and fixtures.

At operation 624, the finished RMBU is transported to the buildingstructure site (e.g., building structure 100 to be installed, or to afactory or another destination for storage) via a vehicle (e.g., truck730). As noted above, method 600 may all be accomplished on the skatetrailer (e.g., starting with placement of the base of the RMBU on theskate trailer), and the same skate trailer may be transported to thebuilding site for installation of the RMBU. This may save time by usingthe same platform to build the RMBU, as well as reduce injuries.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example method to install an RMBU 810 into abuilding structure 820, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure. In this example, an RMBU 810 is inserted into the buildingstructure 820 using a crane 821, a winch cable 822, and skate 823. Thecrane 821 may be integrated into the building structure 820 or be anexternal crane system. For example, in building structures having anaccess point (e.g., access point 10 of structure 100), the crane may beinstalled into the access point of the building structure to helpinstall RMBUs into the building structure and/or remove RMBUs from thebuilding structure. The crane may be integrated or embedded within theaccess point, and it may include a removable crane head that is attachedfor installation and removal, and may be removed when not in use.

During installation, crane 821 may pick up the skate 823, including RMBU810 disposed on skate 823, from a skate-trailer assembly (e.g., assembly710). The skate 823 may be configured to interface with a floor 825 ofthe building structure 820 at interface 824. The configuration of theinterface 824 may be structural, such that the shape of the skate 823and the shape of the floor 825 are complementary, or the configurationmay be magnetic such that an edge of the skate 823 facing the floor 825and the edge of the floor 825 facing the skate 823 both include a magnetattracted to the other, thereby creating a secure connection. It shouldbe appreciated that other interfaces may be used to secure a connectionbetween the skate and the building structure.

After the skate interfaces with the floor, a winch (not shown) mayinterface with a side of the RMBU facing the building structure (e.g.,by means of a winch cable 822) to pull or otherwise guide the RMBU 800into position on floor 825. As RMBU 800 is guided (e.g., pulled) intoplace on floor 825, the RMBU may itself deploy an assembly to facilitateits motion.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example roller assembly 900 that may beincorporated into an RMBU for this purpose, in accordance withimplementations of the disclosure. As illustrated, the roller assembly900 may include a roller 910 on a hinge 920 that can be deployed via anadjustment screw 930. As the adjustment screw 930 is fully tightened, itmay cause the hinged portion of the roller assembly 900 to pivotdownward, thereby deploying the roller 910 (e.g., from the bottom of theRMBU) and allowing the RMBU to move. As the adjustment screw isloosened, it may cause the hinged portion of the roller assembly 900 topivot upward (e.g., into the bottom of the RMBU), thereby retracting theroller 910, and substantially preventing further movement of the RMBU.By virtue of using a roller assembly, the RMBU may be moved into placewithout additional equipment, such as, for example, a forklift. Itshould be appreciated that although roller assembly 900 illustrates asingle roller, roller assembly 900 may include any number of rollers(e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, etc.) that may be deployed to guide the RMBUinto place. In some implementations, multiple roller assemblies 900 maybe utilized.

Referring back to FIG. 8, when the assembly of the RMBU (e.g. rollerassembly 900) is deployed to facilitate motion, the winch may use winchcable 822 to pull the RMBU 810 onto the floor 825 of the buildingstructure 820. After the RMBU 810 is pulled into a final position, thesystem configured to allow the RMBU to move (e.g., roller assembly 900)may be retracted to prevent further unwanted movement. In the finalposition, the RMBU may be secured to the building structure.

While the foregoing examples illustrate some ways in which an RMBU maybe pulled or moved into place on a floor of a building structure, itshould be appreciated that a variety of different mechanism may be usedto pull or otherwise move into place the RMBU on the floor. For example,rollers, bearings, pulleys, slides, or any combination of these or othermechanical devices or parts may be utilized.

FIG. 10 illustrates one example implementation of securing an RMBU to afloor of a concrete building structure using a wedge bolt 1010, inaccordance with implementations of the disclosure. Wedge bolt 1010 maybe a bolt configured to attach into a base material like concrete offloor 1020. To install a wedge bolt, a hole may be drilled through afloor joist 1030 (e.g., metal joist) and into the concrete, the wedgebolt may be inserted into the hole, and the nut tightened. Asillustrated, one or more floor joists 1030 may separate the subfloor1040 of the RMBU from the corresponding floor on which the RMBU isinstalled. Although a single wedge bolt 1010 is illustrated in thisexample as being secured through a floor joist 1030, it should beappreciated that any number of wedge bolts 1010 may be used to securethe RMBU to the floor (e.g., each wedge bolt being secured through acorresponding floor joist) of the concrete building structure.

FIG. 11 illustrates one example implementation of securing an RMBU to afloor of a steel building structure using a bolt-washer-nut assembly1110, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure. In thisimplementation, the use of the bolt-washer-nut assembly 1110 may beappropriate because of the open spaces provided by a steel-framedbuilding structure. In this example building structure, the floors mayinclude a set of floor joists covered by plywood (CDX), oriented strandboard (OSB), dimensional lumber, or a thin layer of lightweight concreteusually poured over corrugated galvanized steel.

While the foregoing examples illustrate some ways in which an RMBU maybe secured to a floor of a building after it has been put in place, itshould be appreciated that a variety of different mechanisms may be usedto secure the RMBU to the floor of the building structure. For example,an RMBU may be secured using bolts, cleats, clamps, brackets, othermechanical devices, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example connection of plumbing services between abuilding structure and an RMBU, in accordance with implementations ofthe disclosure. As illustrated, plumbing services may be run in theutility space (e.g., utility space 303 under the living space 301) of anRMBU, and then down through a support (e.g., support 14 or 1304). Inimplementations, other services (e.g., electrical, gas, etc.) may be ranin the utility space, in the subfloor, in walls of the RMBU, utilityclosets, the walls of supports, the walls of the access point, and/or inother spaces and/or structures. In implementations, utilities may runhorizontally through walls before connecting to the building structure.In implementations utilities may run vertically from floor to floor ofthe building structure through utility closets. For example, the utilityclosets may be in units on multiple floors, all positioned one above theother, such that utilities may pass from one utility closet to the next,vertically, from the top floor to the ground.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exterior view of building structure after RMBUs1300 have been installed, in accordance with implementations of thedisclosure. The exterior view illustrates RMBUs 1300 installed in abuilding structure with multiple floors 1302. Supports 1304 may beplaced between RMBUs, as described above. In this example, therectangles delineated with diagonal lines are areas that are not coveredby caps. The areas that are shown (where RMBUs meet each other, meet asupport 1304, or the distance between the living space 301 and the floor1302) may be covered by caps. The areas delineated with diagonal linesmay be gaps or holes in the caps.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a building structureafter an RMBU 1400 has been installed, in accordance withimplementations of the disclosure. As illustrated, caps 1404 may beinstalled to provide weatherproofing to the building structure and/or toprovide a uniform/aesthetic experience even though RMBUs may come fromdifferent sources. Caps 1404 may be made of different materials, so theinstallation may be substantially different. For instance, a cap mayhave a stucco finish, wood/vinyl/aluminum/cement siding, aluminumcomposite paneling, etc. Caps 1404 may help prevent deterioration fromelements entering the space between the RMBU and the floors 1402 of thebuilding structure, entering the RMBU, and/or entering other spaces. Insome embodiments, the caps may help prevent the RMBU from moving.

FIG. 15 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method1500 for installing an RMBU into a building structure, in accordancewith implementations of the disclosure. Prior to installation of theRMBU into the building structure, the building structure may be need tobe constructed. As such, at operation 1512, the building structure mayneed to be constructed or otherwise finished to prepare it forinstallation of an RMBU. For example, operation 1512 may be performed asdescribed above with reference to method 200 of FIG. 2. Additionally,prior to installation of the RMBU, the RMBU itself will need to beobtained. In implementations, a decision may be made as to whether anewly manufactured RMBU is obtained or whether an RMBU is obtained froma donor building structure. If a newly manufactured RMBU is to be usedfor the installation, at operation 1506 the RMBU may be manufactured(e.g., if it has not been manufactured already). For example, operation1506 may be performed as described above with reference to method 600 ofFIG. 6. If an RMBU from a donor building structure is to be used for theinstallation, at operation 1510, an RMBU may be removed from a donorbuilding structure (e.g., if it has not been removed already). Forexample, operation 1510 may be performed as further described below withreference to method 1700 of FIG. 17.

At operation 1514, the RMBU, whether it is coming from the factory or adonor building structure, may be transported to the target buildingstructure via a vehicle.

At decision 1516, it is determined whether to use a crane integratedinto the building structure or an external crane to lift the RMBU intoplace (e.g., a floor where it is to be installed). The RMBU may belifted into place by lifting a skate carrying the RMBU from askate-trailer assembly. If a crane integrated into the buildingstructure is to be used, at operation 1518, a crane head may beinstalled to the integrated crane prior to lifting the RMBU. The cranehead may then pick up the skate carrying RMBU. Otherwise, if an externalcrane is to be used, at operation 1520, an external crane may bepositioned to pick up the skate and RMBU.

At operation 1522, the crane may move the RMBU to an insertion positionat the outer edge of the building structure. For example, the crane maybe used to position a skate carrying the RMBU such that it interfaceswith the building structure, as described above with reference to FIG.8.

At operation 1524, after being moved to an insertion position, the RMBUmay be inserted into the building structure into a final position. Inimplementations, the RMBU may be pulled into position via variousmechanisms, such as a winch, manually, using a motor, using a forklift,and/or using other mechanisms. In particular implementations, the RMBUmay be pulled into position using a winch and roller assembly asdescribed above with reference to FIGS. 8-9.

At operation 1526, once the RMBU reaches a final position, it may besecured to the building structure. A variety of different securingmechanisms may be used, which may depend on the construction of thebuilding. Examples of securing mechanisms that may be used are furtherdescribed above with reference to FIGS. 10-11.

At operation 1528, a removeable panel may be installed to the RMBU.Examples of removeable panels that may be installed are described abovewith reference to FIGS. 3 and 5. Alternatively, in otherimplementations, the RMBU may come pre-installed with a removeablepanel.

At operation 1530, operations 1522-1528 may be repeated until a desirednumber of RMBUs are installed into the building structure.

At operation 1532, caps may be installed to provide an integrated anduniform appearance to the building structure. For example, caps may beinstalled as discussed above with reference to FIG. 14.

At operation 1534, services from the building structure may be connectedto the utilities of the RMBUs. For example, plumbing services may beinstalled as discussed above with reference to FIG. 12.

At operation 1536, landscaping may be completed. At operation 1538, theremaining building areas that are non-modular may be finished as well.

At operation 1540, occupants may be able to occupy the finished RMBUs.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example method to remove a RMBU from a buildingstructure, in accordance with implementations of the disclosure. FIG. 16may be substantially the reverse of the process described in FIG. 8. Forexample, an RMBU 1630 may be unsecured from the building structure(e.g., by removing one or more wedge bolts holding it in place anddisconnecting the RMBU from utilities). Thereafter, a roller assembly ofthe RMBU (or other assembly of the RMBU that allows it to be move) maybe deployed.

A crane 1605, whether integrated to the building structure or anexternal crane, may be coupled to a skate 1615. The skate 1615 may beconfigured to interface with the building structure at an interfacepoint 1616. The skate 1615 may include a winch 1610 to couple to theside of the RMBU 1630 to extract the RMBU from the building structure.The winch 1610 may pull the RMBU 1630 via winch cable 1611 onto theskate 1615. Once, the RMBU is positioned on the skate, the rollerassembly (or other assembly allowing movement) may be retracted so thatthe RMBU does not move once it is on the skate. Thereafter, the skatewith the mounted RMBU may be lowered onto a trailer to be moved toanother building structure or elsewhere (e.g., a storage location).

FIG. 17 is an operational flow diagram illustrating an example method1700 for removing an RMBU from a building structure, in accordance withimplementations of the disclosure. At decision 1702, it is determinedwhether to use a crane integrated into the building structure or a craneexternal to the building structure to remove an RMBU. If a craneintegrated into the building structure is to be used, at operation 1704,a crane head is installed. If a crane external to the building structureis used, at operation 1706, the crane is positioned.

At operation 1708, caps of the building structure may be removed, atleast where a corresponding RMBU is to be removed. At operation 1710, aremovable panel may be removed from the RMBU. Alternatively, theremovable panel may remain coupled to the RMBU. For example, it mayremain coupled to the RMBU, and the RMBU may be inserted into anotherbuilding structure.

At operation 1712, the utilities of the RMBU may be disconnected fromthe services of the building structure. At operation 1714, the RMBU maybe unsecured from the building structure. In implementations, this mayinclude removing a wedge bolt for a concrete frame or a bolt assemblyfor a steel framed building structure.

At operation 1716, the RMBU may be removed from the building structure.For example, the crane may be coupled to a skate that interfaces withthe building structure, as described above in more detail above. TheRMBU may be removed from the building structure via a mechanism, asdescribed above. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the mechanism may be a winchattached to the skate. The skate and RMBU may be removed via the craneto a trailer coupled to a vehicle.

At operation 1718, the skate-trailer assembly with the RMBU may betransported away from the building site. In some implementations, theRMBU may be used in another building structure.

At operation 1720, operations 1708 to 1716 may be repeated until adesired number of RMBUs are removed from the building structure. In someimplementations, less than all RMBUs may be removed. The removed RMBUsmay or may not be replaced by other RMBUs.

Implementations of the building structure with RMBUs described hereinmay introduce various benefits to the housing industry.

Market-rate real estate developers may make development decisions basedprimarily on a 10 year financial proforma. The proforma calculatesdevelopment costs and project revenues, discounting them back to yearzero. The proforma is based on a 10 year timeline because that is whenparties often want to liquidate accumulated value for distribution tovested parties. When a project is projected to yield an acceptablereturn on investment (ROI), the developer will likely proceed;otherwise, the developer will not proceed. Many prospective projects arerejected before they ever begin because of low ROIs.

The RMBUs may allow the market-rate developer to sell the RMBUs after 10years and retain the land. This provides several interrelated benefits.If, for example, the old RMBUs are sold at 50% of new RMBUs prices, thedeveloper would enjoy a 50% subsidy on new RMBUs, and be paying down aloan on 10 year old land values, as well as being 10 years into theamortization schedule, which means the developer is paying moreprincipal and less interest than a new loan on new land. In addition,the branding and community capital that have been built over the 10years are retained. With stronger financial proformas, market-ratedevelopers may be able to proceed with more projects, make more money,and contribute to housing stock.

Downstream developers (workforce, affordable, and low-income housing)can seldom afford to build without subsidies because, in part, the costof development is often too high to justify investment (i.e., the ROI isnegative or approaching zero). The availability of 10 year old RMBUs at50% of the cost of new construction may make building downstreammultifamily housing types more profitable. In some examples, refreshingdownstream developments with new or used RMBUs may be financiallyreasonable when maintenance costs become unmanageable.

Currently, workforce housing is typically market-rate housing that hasdepreciated downstream, over time. In other words, workforce housing isa function of the age of a development, not a function of proximity toemployment, which can lead to transportation planning problems. Forexample, after the time bond measures pass, environmental impact reportsare filed, entitlements are approved, land is acquired, andinfrastructure is built, the workforce housing may have depreciated tolow-income housing or slums, and the new workforce housing may be whatused to be the oldest market-rate housing in another location.

The reusability and mobility of RMBUs may help stabilize housing typesand locations. Market-rate housing may remain market-rate because themarket-rate housing can be refreshed every 10 years. Downstream housingtypes enjoy a supply of used modules.

Renters may also benefit because housing stock should increase throughuse of RMBUs. More available housing should translate to more affordablehousing. Market-rate developers may be able to proceed with moreprojects, and downstream developers may enjoy lower development costs bybuilding with used RMBUs. Fewer dwelling units may be demolished becauseolder units can simply be sold to make room for the new.Environmentalists may also appreciate the emphasis on reusing RMBUsinstead of sending existing building materials and structures to thelandfill.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should beunderstood that they have been presented by way of example only, and notof limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams may depict an examplearchitectural or other configuration for the invention, which is done toaid in understanding the features and functionality that can be includedin the invention. The invention is not restricted to the illustratedexample architectures or configurations, but the desired features can beimplemented using a variety of alternative architectures andconfigurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the arthow alternative functional, logical or physical partitioning andconfigurations can be implemented to implement the desired features ofthe present invention. Also, a multitude of different constituent modulenames other than those depicted herein can be applied to the variouspartitions. Additionally, with regard to flow diagrams, operationaldescriptions and method claims, the order in which the steps arepresented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments beimplemented to perform the recited functionality in the same orderunless the context so dictates.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture. The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one ormore,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in someinstances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intendedor required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: inserting, from outside ofa building structure, a first reusable modular building unit (RMBU) ontoa floor of the building structure, the first RMBU comprising a room;after inserting the first RMBU, placing the first RMBU on the floor; andafter placing the first RMBU on the floor, removably coupling the firstRMBU to the building structure, wherein the building structurecomprises: a permanent interface connecting the building structure tothe ground; the floor; a support to support the floor; and an accesspoint configured to house and support a service.
 2. The method of claim1, further comprising: constructing the building structure prior toinserting the first RMBU, wherein constructing the building structurecomprises inserting the permanent interface into the ground, wherein thepermanent interface comprises a foundation or a plurality of posts andfootings.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the first RMBU comprises autility, wherein removably coupling the first RMBU to the buildingstructure comprises: coupling the utility to the service; and coupling afloor joist of the first RMBU to the floor of the building structure. 4.The method of claim 1, wherein inserting the first RMBU onto the floorof the building structure, comprises: lifting and placing the first RMBUonto the floor.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein placing the first RMBUonto the floor of the building structure, comprises: using at least awinch on the floor to pull the first RMBU into a position on the floor.6. The method of claim 4, wherein placing the first RMBU onto the floorof the building structure, comprises: deploying a roller assembly of thefirst RMBU to roll the first RMBU onto a position on the floor.
 7. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the first RMBU comprises a removable panel,the removable panel comprising a door, a camera, a window, a doubledoor, or a mailbox slot.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the removablepanel is configured to house and support services.
 9. The method ofclaim 2, further comprising: inserting from outside of the buildingstructure, a second RMBU onto a second floor of the building structure,the second RMBU comprising a room, wherein the second RMBU comprises aremovable panel, wherein the removable panel of the second RMBU isdifferent from the removable panel of the first RMBU and comprises adoor, a camera, a window, a double door, or a mailbox slot.
 10. Themethod of claim 8, further comprising: installing one or more caps on anexterior of the building structure, wherein installation one more capsgives the first RMBU and the second RMBU an integrated appearance froman exterior of the building structure.
 11. The method of claim 2,further comprising: inserting from outside of the building structure, asecond RMBU onto the floor of the building structure, wherein the secondRMBU comprises a room; placing the second RMBU adjacent the first RMBUon the floor; and after placing the second RMBU, securing the secondRMBU to the building structure, wherein the combination of the first andsecond RMBUs forms a functional living or office space.
 12. A system,comprising: a building structure, the building structure comprising: apermanent interface connecting the building structure to the ground; afloor; a support to support the floor; and an access point configured tohouse and support a service; and a first reusable modular building unit(RMBU) configured to be inserted, from outside of the buildingstructure, onto the floor of the building structure, wherein the firstRMBU is placed onto the floor after it is inserted into the buildingstructure, and the first RMBU is removably coupled to the buildingstructure, wherein the first RMBU comprises a room.
 13. The system ofclaim 12, wherein the building structure further comprises a craneconfigured to lift and place the first RMBU onto the floor.
 14. Thesystem of claim 12, wherein the first RMBU has an adjustable rollingmechanism to allow the first RMBU to roll into a position on a surface.15. The system of claim 14, wherein the adjustable rolling mechanism canbe adjusted to engage or disengage the rolling mechanism with thesurface.
 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the permanent interface isa foundation.
 17. A method, comprising: decoupling a first reusablemodular building unit (RMBU) from a first building structure, whereinthe first RMBU comprises a room; after decoupling the first RMBU, movingthe first RMBU from the floor to an outside edge of the floor to removethe first RMBU from building structure; and after moving the first RMBUto the outside edge of the floor, removing the first RMBU from thebuilding structure, wherein the first building structure comprises: apermanent interface connecting the building structure to the ground; afloor; a support to support the floor; and an access point configured tohouse and support a service.
 18. The method of claim 17, furthercomprising: after removing the first RMBU, transporting the first RMBUto a second permanent building structure, wherein the second buildingstructure comprises a floor; after transporting the first RMBU to thesecond building structure, inserting, from outside of the secondbuilding structure, a first RMBU onto the floor of the second buildingstructure; after inserting the first RMBU, placing the first RMBU on thefloor of the second building structure; and after placing the first RMBUon the floor of the second building structure, removably coupling thefirst RMBU to the second building structure.
 19. The method of claim 17,further comprising: inserting, from outside of the first buildingstructure, a second RMBU onto the floor of the first building structure,the second RMBU comprising a room; after inserting the second RMBU,placing the second RMBU on the floor; and after placing the second RMBUon the floor, removably coupling the second RMBU to the first buildingstructure.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first RMBU has atleast one of a different size, shape, or configuration from the secondRMBU.